Foldable electronic device comprising flexible display

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device comprising a flexible display. A foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a foldable housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; a hinge assembly disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and a flexible display disposed in the first housing portion and the second housing portion. The flexible display may include a support member including a first plate portion disposed in the first housing portion, a second plate portion disposed in the second housing portion, and a bending structure portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings. The support member may include a recess portion including a first recess portion formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion, disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion, and configured to reduce the rigidity of a corresponding area of the first plate portion, and a second recess portion formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion, disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion, and configured to reduce the rigidity of a corresponding area of the second plate portion. The flexible display may include a first adhesive layer disposed above the support member such that at least a part thereof overlaps the bending structure portion of the support member, and configured to attach a layer disposed thereon to the support member. The flexible display may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer disposed at least on the first recess portion and at least on the second recess portion so as to overlap the plurality of openings of the support member such that a part thereof is not adhesively att

Description

Foldable electronic device including a flexible display

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device including a flexible display, for example, a flexible display capable of improving the durability and appearance quality of the flexible display and improving the internal space efficiency of the foldable electronic device, and a foldable electronic device including the same.

[0002] The term "electronic device" may refer to devices that perform specific functions according to an installed program, ranging from home appliances to electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, video / audio devices, desktop / laptop computers, or in-vehicle navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as sound or video. As the integration density of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communication becomes commonplace, various functions can be integrated into a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal. For example, not only communication functions but also entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, or functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device.

[0003] With the widespread use of personal or portable communication devices such as smartphones, user demand for portability and ease of use is increasing. For example, a touchscreen display is an output device that outputs visual information, such as a screen, and can also provide a virtual keypad that replaces mechanical input devices (e.g., button-type input devices). As a result, portable communication devices or electronic devices can be miniaturized while providing the same or even better usability (e.g., a larger screen). On the other hand, with the commercialization of flexible displays, such as foldable or rollable displays, the portability and ease of use of electronic devices are expected to be further enhanced. Electronic devices including flexible displays can improve portability and ease of use by allowing multiple different structures (e.g., housings) to be carried in a folded or rolled state, and by providing a large screen when unfolded.

[0004] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; a hinge assembly disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and a flexible display disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion, wherein the flexible display comprises a first plate portion disposed in the first housing portion, a second plate portion disposed in the second housing portion, and a bending structure portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings, and a support member comprising a first recess portion formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and configured to reduce the rigidity of a corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion, and a second recess portion formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and configured to reduce the rigidity of a corresponding area of ​​the second plate portion. It may include a first adhesive layer disposed on top of the support member, at least one portion of which overlaps the bending structure portion of the support member, and configured to attach the layer disposed on top to the support member; and a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member that is attached to the lower surface of the support member through at least the first recess portion and at least the second recess portion, and at least one portion of which overlaps the plurality of openings of the support member without being adhesively attached to the bending structure portion.

[0006] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing portion, a second housing portion rotatably connected to one side of the first housing portion, and a third housing portion rotatably connected to the other side of the first housing portion; a first hinge assembly disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion around a first folding axis; and a second hinge assembly disposed between the first housing portion and the third housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the third housing portion around a second folding axis. and a flexible display disposed in the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the third housing portion, wherein the flexible display comprises a support member including a first plate portion disposed in the first housing portion, a second plate portion disposed in the second housing portion, a third plate portion disposed in the third housing portion, a first bending structure portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings, a second bending structure portion disposed between the first plate portion and the third plate portion and including a plurality of openings, and recess portions formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion, the lower surface of the second plate portion, and the lower surface of the third plate portion; and a first adhesive layer disposed on the support member, wherein at least one portion overlaps the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion of the support member, and is configured to attach a layer disposed on top to the support member.and may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer disposed in at least the first recess portion and at least the second recess portion, and a portion of which is not adhesively attached to the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion but overlaps with the plurality of openings of the support member.

[0007] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion (312); a hinge assembly disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and a flexible display disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion, wherein the flexible display comprises a support member configured to perform the role of a structure of the flexible display, and the support member comprises: a first plate portion disposed in the first housing portion; a second plate portion disposed in the second housing portion; and a bending structure portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and configured to bend by including a plurality of openings. The flexible display may further include a recess portion that is recessed into the lower surface of the first plate portion and the second plate portion, is positioned adjacent to the bending structure portion, and is configured to reduce the thickness of the first plate portion and the second plate portion to reduce the rigidity of the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and the flexible display may further include a bumper member that is positioned in the recess portion and comprises a material having a lower modulus value than that of the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

[0008] The aspects, configurations, and / or advantages described above regarding various embodiments of the present disclosure may become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a side view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Throughout the attached drawings, similar parts, configurations, and / or structures may be assigned similar reference numbers.

[0028] The following description relating to the attached drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, including the claims and their corresponding contents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include various specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications to the various embodiments described in the present disclosure may be made without departing from the scope and technical spirit of the disclosure. Additionally, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted.

[0029] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literal meanings but may be used to clearly and consistently describe an embodiment of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the rights or the disclosure defined as equivalent thereto.

[0030] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, it should be understood that the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" include a plural meaning. Thus, for example, "component surface" can be understood to include one or more of the component surfaces.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0033] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., program (140)), for example, and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (176) or communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., central processing unit or application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., graphics processing unit, neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor, sensor hub processor, or communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0034] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0035] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0036] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0037] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0038] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0039] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0040] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0041] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0042] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0043] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0044] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0045] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0046] The power management module (188) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0047] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0048] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0049] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for realizing URLLC.

[0050] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0051] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0052] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0053] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0054] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this disclosure may be a device of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to the devices described above.

[0055] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In the present disclosure, each of phrases such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as “first,” “second,” or “first” or “second” may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationally,” it means that said component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0056] The term “module” as used in various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0057] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0059] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0060] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (201), a hinge cover (240) covering a foldable portion of the housing (201), and a display (230) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the surface on which the screen output from the display (230) is exposed may be defined as the front of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first front (210a) and a second front (220a)). The opposite side of the front may be defined as the rear of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first rear (210b) and a second rear (220b)). In one embodiment, the surface surrounding the space between the front and the rear may be defined as the side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first side (210c) and a second side (220c)). The side of the electronic device (101) may be at least one side of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be referred to as a foldable electronic device, a portable electronic device, or a portable foldable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may be referred to as a foldable housing. The display (230) can be referred to as a "flexible display".

[0063] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) rotatable with respect to the first housing (210), a first rear cover (280), and a second rear cover (290). The housing (201) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shapes and combinations shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (280) may be formed integrally, and the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (290) may be formed integrally.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) is connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (202) of FIG. 4) and may include a first front surface (210a) facing a first direction and a first rear surface (210b) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) is connected to a hinge structure and includes a second front surface (220a) facing a third direction and a second rear surface (220b) facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and may rotate relative to the first housing (210) about the hinge structure (202). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) may be variable in a folded state or an unfolded state. The folding or unfolding motion of the electronic device (101) can be understood as the rotation of the first housing (210) relative to the hinge structure or the rotation of the second housing (220) relative to the hinge structure. When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the first front (210a) may face the second front (220a). When the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the third direction may be the same as the first direction. Below, unless otherwise noted, directions are described based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (101).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are positioned on both sides of a folding axis (Ax) and may have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (Ax). As described below, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is unfolded, folded, or in an intermediate state. According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) additionally includes a sensor area (224) in which sensors (e.g., a front camera) are positioned, but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in other areas.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the folding axis (Ax) may be a plurality of parallel folding axes (e.g., two). In the present disclosure, the folding axis (Ax) is provided along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101), but the direction of the folding axis (Ax) is not limited thereto. For example (not shown), an embodiment may be implemented in which the electronic device (101) includes a folding axis extended along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a structure to which a digital pen (not illustrated) can be attached. For example, the electronic device (101) may include a magnetic body configured to attach the digital pen to the side of the first housing (210) or the side of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a structure into which a digital pen can be inserted. For example, a hole (not illustrated) into which a digital pen can be inserted may be formed on the side of the first housing (210) or the side of the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101).

[0068] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be formed of a metal or non-metal material having a selected size of rigidity to support the display (230). At least a portion formed of a metal material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (e.g., the substrate portion (260) of FIG. 4).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the sensor area (224) may be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to one corner or one edge of the second housing (220). However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area (224) are not limited to the illustrated examples. For example, in one embodiment, the sensor area (224) may be provided in another corner of the second housing (220), any area between the top corner and the bottom corner, or in the first housing (210). In one embodiment, components for performing various functions embedded in the electronic device (101) may be exposed to the front of the electronic device (101) through the sensor area (224) or through one or more openings provided in the sensor area (224). In one embodiment, the components may include various types of sensors. The sensor(s) may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280) is positioned on one side of the folding axis (Ax) at the rear of the electronic device (101) and may have a substantially rectangular periphery, for example, and the periphery may be wrapped by another structure of the first housing (210). Similarly, the second rear cover (290) is positioned on the other side of the folding axis (Ax) at the rear of the electronic device (101) and its periphery may be wrapped by another structure of the second housing (220).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280) and / or the second rear cover (290) may have a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (Ax). However, the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) having different shapes that are not symmetrical.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280), the second rear cover (290), the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may provide a space in which various components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear of the electronic device (101). For example, at least a portion of the sub-display (234) may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the first rear cover (280). In another embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (290). In various embodiments, the sensors may include a proximity sensor and / or a camera module (206) (e.g., a rear camera).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a front camera exposed to the front of the electronic device (101) through one or more openings provided in the sensor area (224) or a camera module (206) exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (290) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (101).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) is positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to cover an internal component (e.g., the hinge structure (202) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by a part of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or exposed to the outside, depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (flat state or folded state).

[0075] According to one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and not exposed. As another example, as shown in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge cover (240) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). As yet another example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded with a certain angle, the hinge cover (240) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be smaller than in the fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may include a curved surface.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be placed in a space formed (or defined) by the housing (201). For example, the display (230) may be seated on a recess provided by the housing (201) and may form most of the front surface of the electronic device (101). Thus, the front surface of the electronic device (101) may include the display (230) and a portion of the first housing (210) and a portion of the second housing (220) adjacent to the display (230). The rear surface of the electronic device (101) may include a first rear cover (280), a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the first rear cover (280), a second rear cover (290), and a portion of the second housing (220) adjacent to the second rear cover (290).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a plurality of display regions spaced apart from each other. For example, the display (230) may include a first display region (231) disposed on a first housing (210), a second display region (232) disposed on a second housing (220), and a folding region (233). According to one embodiment, the first display region (231) and the second display region (232) may rotate relative to each other with respect to a folding axis (Ax).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may mean a display in which at least some area can be deformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (230) may be a foldable or flexible display. According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a folding area (233), a first display area (231) disposed on one side (e.g., the left side of the folding area (233) shown in FIG. 2) relative to the folding area (233), and a second display area (232) disposed on the other side (e.g., the right side of the folding area (233) shown in FIG. 2). However, the division of the areas of the display (230) is exemplary, and the display (230) may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the area of ​​the display (230) may be divided by a folding area (233) extending parallel to the Y-axis or a folding axis (Ax), but in other embodiments, the area of ​​the display (230) may be divided based on a different folding area (e.g., a folding area parallel to the X-axis) or a different folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the X-axis). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be combined with or placed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer (not shown) configured to detect a magnetic field type stylus pen.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the first display area (231) and the second display area (232) may have a shape that is symmetrical overall with respect to the folding area (233). According to one embodiment (not shown), the second display area (232), unlike the first display area (231), may include a notch cut according to the presence of the sensor area (224), but may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical to the first display area (231) in other areas. For example, the first display area (231) and the second display area (232) may include a portion having a shape that is symmetrical to each other and a portion having a shape that is asymmetrical to each other.

[0080] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and each area of ​​the display (230) according to the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., flat state, or unfolded state and folded state) will be described.

[0081] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a flat state (e.g., FIG. 2), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be positioned to face in the same direction at substantially 180 degrees. The surface of the first display area (231) and the surface of the second display area (232) of the display (230) may form 180 degrees with each other and face in the same direction (e.g., the front direction of the electronic device). The folding area (233) may form a plane with the first display area (231) and the second display area (232).

[0082] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be positioned facing each other. The surface of the first display area (231) and the surface of the second display area (232) of the display (230) may face each other, forming a narrow angle (e.g., between about 0 and 10 degrees). When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the folding area (233) may be formed of a curved surface having at least a portion of a predetermined curvature.

[0083] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state (not shown), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be positioned at a certain angle to each other. The surface of the first display area (231) and the surface of the second display area (232) of the display (230) may form an angle that is larger than the folded state and smaller than the unfolded state. The folding area (233) may be formed of a curved surface having at least a certain curvature, and the curvature may be smaller than in the folded state.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a sub-display (234). The sub-display (234) may display a screen in a direction different from the display area (231, 232). For example, the sub-display (234) may output a screen in a direction opposite to the first display area (231). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (234) may be placed on the first rear cover (280).

[0085] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 4, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 to 3) may include a housing (201), a hinge structure (202), a display (230), a sub-display (234), a hinge cover (240), a battery (250), and a circuit board (260). For example, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (280), and a second rear cover (290). In one embodiment, the housing (201) may be understood to include a hinge cover (240). The configuration of the first housing (210), second housing (220), hinge cover (240), first rear cover (280), and second rear cover (290) of FIG. 4 may be all or partly the same as the configuration of the first housing (210), second housing (220), hinge cover (240), first rear cover (280), and second rear cover (290) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be assembled to each other so as to be joined to both sides of the hinge structure (202). For example, the hinge structure (202) may be placed in a hinge area between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to rotatably join the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). Here, the term 'hinge area' may refer to the space where the hinge structure (202) is placed, the area at least partially enclosed by the hinge cover (240), and / or the space between the folding area (233) of the display (230) and the hinge cover (240). In one embodiment, the hinge area may be understood as a space substantially corresponding to the folding area (233).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (202) can connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) so that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be rotated relative to each other. The hinge structure (202) can be covered by a hinge cover (240). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge assembly comprising the hinge structure (202) and the hinge cover (240).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (202) may provide a folding axis (Ax) (e.g., the folding axis (Ax) of FIG. 2). The hinge structure (202) may be connected to a first plate (212) of a first housing (210) and a second plate (222) of a second housing (220). The housings (210, 220) may be coupled to the hinge structure (202) and rotate relative to the hinge structure (202) or the hinge cover (240).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first plate (212) (e.g., a first support member or a first support area) capable of supporting a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first circuit board (262) and / or a first battery (252)) and a first side wall (211) surrounding at least a portion of the first plate (212). The first side wall (211) may include a first side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first side (210c) of FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second plate (222) (e.g., a second support member or a second support area) capable of supporting a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a second circuit board (264) and / or a second battery (254)) and a second side wall (221) surrounding at least a portion of the second plate (222). The second side wall (221) may include a second side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a second side (220c) of FIG. 2).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the first side wall (211) or the second side wall (221) may be understood as a frame shape that at least partially surrounds the space between the front and rear of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220)). In one embodiment, the plates (212, 222) may be structures extending from either of the side walls (211, 221). For example, for convenience of explanation, the plates (212, 222) and the side walls (211, 221) are described separately, but the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the plates (212 or 222) and the side walls (211 or 221) may be implemented as a single body. In one embodiment, the plates (212 or 222) and sidewalls (211 or 221) may be implemented using a combination of an insulating material and an electrically conductive material, in which case the housings (210, 220) may be implemented as a single unit with the plates (212 or 222) and sidewalls (211 or 221) through an insert injection molding process and / or a computer numerical control machining process.

[0092] According to one embodiment, at least one part of the housings (210, 220) can function as an antenna. For example, the part functioning as an antenna of the electronic device (101) can implement at least a part of at least one side of the housings (210, 220).

[0093] According to one embodiment, a portion functioning as an antenna of the electronic device (101) may be positioned adjacent to at least one side of the housings (210, 220) and / or oriented in a direction intersecting the Z-axis (e.g., X-axis direction or Y-axis direction). For example, the portion functioning as an antenna of the electronic device (101) may be implemented by a part of the housings (210, 220) or may be manufactured as a separate part from the housings (210, 220) and positioned adjacent to the edge of the housings (210, 220). According to one embodiment, the phrase “a portion functioning as an antenna of the electronic device (101) is implemented by a part of the housings (210, 220)” may be understood to include, for example, an example in which the portion functioning as an antenna is positioned to form at least one side of the housings (210, 220).

[0094] Although not illustrated, the first housing (210) may include a first waterproof member disposed on the first plate (212), and the second housing (220) may include a second waterproof member disposed on the second plate (222). The first waterproof member and / or the second waterproof member may be disposed in the gap between the display (230) and the plates (212, 222) to prevent moisture or foreign matter from entering the interior of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) from the outside.

[0095] According to one embodiment, a display (230) (e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display) may include a first display area (231), a second display area (232), and / or a folding area (233). The configuration of the first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the folding area (233) of FIG. 4 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the folding area (233) of FIG. 2.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the sub-display (234) can output a screen in the opposite direction of the first display area (231). For example, the sub-display (234) can be positioned between the first rear cover (280) and the first plate (212).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a camera assembly (204) in which a plurality of cameras are combined (e.g., a camera module (206) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3). Although not illustrated, the electronic device (101) may further include a camera that photographs a subject by passing through a part of the display (230) (e.g., a first display area (231) or a second display area (232)) or a camera that photographs a subject by passing through a part of the sub-display (234).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) and / or the second rear cover (290) may include a cover plate (299) positioned correspondingly to the camera assembly (204). The cover plate (299) may provide an optical path (e.g., through hole) corresponding to the camera assembly (204), for example, and may make the optical path harmonize with the appearance of the electronic device (101). To provide an aesthetic appeal or to achieve a harmonious appearance in the appearance of the electronic device (101), the cover plate (299) may include a metal material. For example, the cover plate (299) may be made of a metal material or finished with a metal material (e.g., printing, deposition, coating, or plating). In one embodiment, the cover plate (299) may be understood as part of the second rear cover (290), with a portion (e.g., the edge) positioned inside the second rear cover (290) and another portion positioned exposed to the outside.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the battery (250) may include a first battery (252) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second battery (254) disposed within a second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first battery (252) may be connected to a first circuit board (262), and the second battery (254) may be connected to a second circuit board (264). According to one embodiment, the battery (250) may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (250) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the circuit board (260) may include a first circuit board (262) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second circuit board (264) disposed within a second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264) may be electrically connected by at least one flexible printed circuit board (266). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (266) may be disposed across a hinge area or a hinge structure (e.g., a hinge structure (202)). According to one embodiment, the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264) may be disposed within a space formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the first rear cover (280), and the second rear cover (290). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) can be placed on the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include speakers (208a, 208b). According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may convert electrical signals into sound. According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may be placed inside a space formed by a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (280), and a second rear cover (290). According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may include an upper speaker (208a) located at the top (+Y direction) of the electronic device (101) and a lower speaker (208b) located at the bottom (-Y direction) of the electronic device (100). In this disclosure, the speakers (208a, 208b) are shown as being located within a single housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4), but this is an optional structure. For example, the speakers (208a, 208b) may be located within at least one of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The configuration of the speakers (208a, 208b) of FIG. 4 may be the same as, in whole or in part, the configuration of the acoustic output module (155) of FIG. 1.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear member (270) (or a rear case). According to one embodiment, the rear member (270) may be placed within a housing (201) (e.g., a second housing (220)). According to one embodiment, the rear member (270) may accommodate at least one antenna (275). In one embodiment, the rear member (270) may function as a structure for placing the antenna (275) and may function as a structure for supporting or protecting either of the circuit boards (262, 264). For example, a portion of the rear member (270) designated by reference numeral '279' may support a portion of the circuit boards (262, 264).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna (275). The antenna (275a, 275b) may include, for example, an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna (275a), a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna (275b). The antenna (275) may, for example, communicate near-field with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0104] In one embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a part or a combination thereof of the housing (201). For example, the antenna (275) may include a communication antenna (275c). The communication antenna (275c) may be used for communication with an external electronic device (e.g., Wi-Fi). For example, the communication antenna (275c) may be located on the upper (271a) or lower (271b) portion of the rear member (270). In addition, the electronic device (101) may further include an additional antenna positioned adjacent to a part of the side walls (211, 221) or an electronic component such as a camera assembly (204).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first plate (212) may be disposed between the first display area (231) and the first rear cover (280). The first display area (231) may be disposed on one side of the first plate (212) (e.g., the side facing the +Z direction in FIG. 4). The first rear cover (280) may be disposed below the other side of the first plate (212) (e.g., the side facing the -Z direction in FIG. 4).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first battery (252) and the first circuit board (262) may be disposed on the other side of the first plate (212) (e.g., the side facing the -Z direction in FIG. 4). For example, the first battery (252) and the first circuit board (262) may be disposed between the first plate (212) and the first rear cover (280). The first plate (212) may be disposed between the first display area (231) and the first battery (252). The first plate (212) may be disposed between the first display area (231) and the first circuit board (262).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the second plate (222) may be disposed between the second display area (232) and the second rear cover (290). The second display area (232) may be disposed on one side of the second plate (222) (e.g., the side facing the +Z direction in FIG. 4). The second rear cover (290) may be disposed below the other side of the second plate (222) (e.g., the side facing the -Z direction in FIG. 4).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the second battery (254) and the second circuit board (264) may be disposed on the other side of the second plate (222) (e.g., the side facing the -Z direction in FIG. 4). For example, the second battery (254) and the second circuit board (264) may be disposed between the second plate (222) and the second rear cover (290). The second plate (222) may be disposed between the second display area (232) and the second battery (254). The second plate (222) may be disposed between the second display area (232) and the second circuit board (264).

[0109] According to one embodiment, at least one electrical component (e.g., the processor (120) and / or memory (130) of FIG. 1) may be disposed on and / or mounted on the circuit board (260). The at least one electrical component may generate heat during operation. The electronic device (101) may include a heat dissipation member configured to dissipate heat generated from the at least one electrical component.

[0110] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Specifically, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A' of FIG. 3, showing an enlarged view of the periphery of the folding axis (F) when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A' of FIG. 2, showing the flexible display (330) in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) of the foldable electronic device (300).

[0112] Hereinafter, 'first direction' may mean a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) and, with respect to FIG. 6, the +X direction. 'Second direction' may mean a direction opposite to the first direction (+X direction) and, with respect to FIG. 6, the -X direction. 'Third direction' may mean a direction intersecting the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction) and / or a direction toward the first housing part (311) from the folding axis (F), and, with respect to FIG. 6, the +Y direction which is the left direction. 'Fourth direction' may mean a direction intersecting the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction), a direction opposite to the third direction (+Y direction), and / or a direction toward the second housing part (312) from the folding axis (F), and, with respect to FIG. 6, the -Y direction which is the right direction. The ‘first thickness direction’ is one of the thickness directions of the foldable housing (310), the first housing portion (311), the second housing portion (312), and / or the flexible display (330), and may mean the +Z direction, which is the upward direction with respect to FIG. 6. The ‘second thickness direction’ is the direction opposite to the first thickness direction (+Z direction), and may mean the -Z direction, which is the downward direction with respect to FIG. 6.

[0113] The detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure not described below may be the same or similar to the detailed configuration of an electronic device (101) described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0114] Hereinafter, a foldable electronic device (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310), a hinge assembly (320), and a flexible display (330), but some of these may be excluded and implemented, and additional configurations are not excluded.

[0115] Hereinafter, a flexible display (330) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a support member (331), a first adhesive layer (AM1), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member (332), a second adhesive layer (AM2), a polarizing film layer (333), a display panel (334), a third adhesive layer (AM3), a glass layer (335), a fourth adhesive layer (AM4), and a protective layer (336), but some of these may be omitted and implemented, and additional configurations other than those may not be excluded.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (300) may include a foldable housing (310) (e.g., the housing (201) of FIGS. 2 to 4). A flexible display (330) may be disposed in the foldable housing (310). The foldable housing (310) may include a first housing portion (311) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2 to 4) and a second housing portion (312) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2 to 4). The first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) may be rotatably connected around a folding axis (F) disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (300) may include a hinge assembly (320) (e.g., the hinge structure (202) of FIG. 4). The hinge assembly (320) may be positioned between a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312). The hinge assembly (320) may be positioned below the flexible display (330) (e.g., on the side of the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the flexible display (330). The hinge assembly (320) may be configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) around a folding axis (F) located between the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (300) may include a flexible display (330) (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 4). The flexible display (330) may be disposed on a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312). The flexible display (330) may be disposed on the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312). For example, the flexible display (330) may be disposed on a surface facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction) of the first housing portion (311) and a surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second housing portion (312). The flexible display (330) may be disposed on a hinge assembly (320).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 5, in order to prevent or mitigate wrinkles from occurring in the flexible display (330) or damage to the flexible display (330) during the bending process, the flexible display (330) may have a teardrop shape to maximize the curvature of the portion adjacent to the folding axis (F) of the flexible display (330) (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the width of the portion adjacent to the folding axis (F) of the flexible display (330) may be greater than the width of the portion far from the folding axis (F) of the flexible display (330).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a forward bending region (NB). The forward bending region (NB) may be an area that overlaps with the folding axis (F). The forward bending region (NB) may refer to a part that bends in a direction corresponding to the folding direction of the foldable housing (310) during the process in which the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., state of FIG. 3).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a reverse bending region (CB). The reverse bending region (CB) may be placed on both sides of the forward bending region (NB). The reverse bending region (CB) may be a portion having a curvature opposite to that of the forward bending region (NB) when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The reverse bending region (CB) may refer to a portion that bends in the opposite direction to the forward bending region (NB) so that a 'teardrop shape' is realized when the flexible display (330) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, in the reverse bending region (CB) formed in the first housing portion (311), the flexible display (330) may be bent convexly toward the second housing portion (312), and in the reverse bending region (CB) formed in the second housing portion (312), the flexible display (330) may be bent convexly toward the first housing portion (311). The forward bending region (NB) and the reverse bending region (CB) may be referred to as 'bending regions'. For example, the bending regions (NB, CB) may include the forward bending region (NB) and the reverse bending region (CB).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a support member (331). The support member (331) may serve as a structure of the flexible display (330). The support member (331) may include a metal material. For example, the support member (331) may include titanium. The support member (331) may be referred to as a 'metal plate' and / or a lattice.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the support member (331) may include a first plate portion (3311). The first plate portion (3311) may be disposed in the first housing portion (311). The first plate portion (3311) may be disposed on the side of the first housing portion (311) with respect to the bending structure portion (3313). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300) (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the first plate portion (3311) may be disposed on one side of the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., the side of the third direction (+Y direction)).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the support member (331) may include a second plate portion (3312). The second plate portion (3312) may be disposed in the second housing portion (312). The second plate portion (3312) may be disposed on the side of the second housing portion (312) with respect to the bending structure portion (3313). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300) (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the second plate portion (3312) may be disposed on the other side of the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction)).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the support member (331) may include a bending structure (3313). The bending structure (3313) may be positioned between the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312). The bending structure (3313) may be positioned in a positive bending area (NB). The bending structure (3313) may be positioned in an area that overlaps with the folding axis (F). The bending structure (3313) may be configured to bend in the same direction as the bending direction of the foldable housing (310) during the process in which the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., state of FIG. 3).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the bending structure (3313) may include a pattern structure. The pattern structure may be provided in various shapes. For example, the bending structure (3313) may include a plurality of openings (H). The plurality of openings (H) may be arranged regularly. By forming a plurality of openings (H) in the bending structure (3313), the shape of the bending structure (3313) may be deformed along the bending direction of the flexible display (330). The bending structure (3313) may be referred to as a 'lattice structure' and / or a 'lattice pattern structure'.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the support member (331) may include a recess (3314). The recess (3314) may be formed by being recessed upward (e.g., in the first thickness direction (+Z direction)) from the lower surface of the first plate portion (3311) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the first plate portion (3311)) and the lower surface of the second plate portion (3312) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second plate portion (3312). For example, the recess (3314) may be formed as an intaglio on the lower surface of the first plate portion (3311) and the lower surface of the second plate portion (3312). The recess (3314) may be positioned adjacent to the bending structure portion (3313). The recess (3314) may be formed in the reverse bending area (CB). The recess (3314) may be configured to reduce the thickness of the support member (331) (e.g., the first plate portion (3311) and / or the second plate portion (3312)). The recess (3314) may be configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312). For example, the recess (3314) may be configured so that the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312) can be easily bent in the reverse bending area (CB). This allows the flexible display (330) to be easily changed into a 'teardrop shape' when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), thereby preventing or mitigating damage to the flexible display (330). The recess (3314) may be referred to as an ‘etching part’ and / or ‘half etching (HE; half etching)’.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (3314) may include a first recess portion (3314a). The first recess portion (3314a) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (3311). The first recess portion (3314a) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The first recess portion (3314a) may be positioned adjacent to the bending structure portion (3313). The first recess portion (3314a) may be positioned on one side of the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the bending structure portion (3313)). The first recess portion (3314a) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The first recess portion (3314a) may be configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion (3311). The first recess portion (3314a) may be a component of the support member (331). For example, the support member (331) may include the first recess portion (3314a).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (3314) may include a second recess portion (3314b). The second recess portion (3314b) may be formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion (3312). The second recess portion (3314b) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The second recess portion (3314b) may be positioned adjacent to the bending structure portion (3313). The second recess portion (3314b) may be positioned on the other side of the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction) of the bending structure portion (3313). The second recess portion (3314b) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The second recess portion (3314b) may be configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the second plate portion (3312). The second recess portion (3314b) may be a component of the support member (331). For example, the support member (331) may include the second recess portion (3314b).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a first adhesive layer (AM1). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on a support member (331). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on the first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the support member (331). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be configured to attach a layer (e.g., a polarizing film layer (333) and / or a display panel (334)) placed on the first adhesive layer (AM1) to the support member (331). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). In one embodiment, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may include an optically clear adhesive. For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may include an optically clear resin (OCR). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may be referred to as the 'first adhesive member', 'first attachment layer', 'first attachment member', 'adhesive layer', 'attachment side', and / or 'attachment member'.

[0131] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first adhesive layer (AM1) may overlap the bending structure portion (3313). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be configured to cover the bending structure portion (3313). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on the first plate portion (3311), the second plate portion (3312), and the bending structure portion (3313). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may extend integrally from the first housing portion (311) to the second housing portion (312). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may extend integrally from the first plate portion (3311) to the second plate portion (3312). For example, it may be understood that no discontinuous portion of the first adhesive layer (AM1) is formed in the flexible display (330). Through this, structures placed on the first adhesive layer (AM1) (e.g., polarizing film layer (333), display panel (334), glass layer (335) and / or protective layer (336)) can be uniformly supported by the first adhesive layer (AM1), so that the durability and appearance quality of the flexible display (330) can be improved.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a substrate member (332). The substrate member (332) may be positioned below the support member (331). For example, the substrate member (332) may be positioned on the side of the support member (331) in the second thickness direction (-Z direction). The substrate member (332) may be positioned in at least a portion of the reverse bending area (CB) and in the forward bending area (NB). A portion of the substrate member (332) may overlap with the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., a plurality of openings (H)). For example, the substrate member (332) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the bending structure portion (3313) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the bending structure portion (3313). The substrate member (332) may overlap at least partially with the first plate portion (3311). The substrate member (332) may overlap at least partially with the second plate portion (3312). The substrate member (332) may extend from the first etching portion (3314a) to the second etching portion (3314b). The substrate member (332) may prevent foreign substances from penetrating into the bending structure portion (3313).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the base member (332) may be attached to the lower surface of the support member (331) through a second attachment member (AM2) disposed in at least the first recess portion (3314a) and at least the second recess portion (3314b). For example, the base member (332) may be attached to the lower surface of the first plate portion (3311) and the lower surface of the second plate portion (3312) by the second adhesive layer (AM2). A portion of the base member (332) may not be adhesively attached to the bending structure portion (3313).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the substrate member (332) may include a flexible material. The substrate member (332) may include a material having high elasticity, wear resistance, and flexibility. For example, the substrate member may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The substrate member (332) may be a part that bends together with the bending structure (3313) during the process in which the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., state of FIG. 3). The substrate member (332) may be referred to as a 'thermoplastic polyurethane member (332)', a 'substrate layer', a 'TPU layer', and / or a 'TPU member'.

[0135] In one embodiment, the substrate member (332) may include other materials. For example, the material of the substrate member (332) may optionally, substantially, or additionally include various materials having high elasticity, wear resistance, and flexibility. For example, the substrate member (332) may optionally, substantially, or additionally include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), polyurethane (PU), polyamide (PA, nylon), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), silicone, and / or polycarbonate (PC) materials.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a second adhesive layer (AM2). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed between the first plate portion (3311) and the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed between the second plate portion (3312) and the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be configured to attach the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) to the support member (331). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) may be attached to the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312) through the second adhesive layer (AM2). For example, it may be understood that the second adhesive layer (AM2) is not attached to the bending structure portion (3313). As the second adhesive layer (AM2) is disposed on the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312), the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be attached to the support member (331) so as not to seal the bending structure portion (3313). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). In one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may include an optically clear adhesive. For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may include an optically clear resin (OCR). For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be referred to as a 'second adhesive member', 'second attachment layer', 'second attachment member', 'adhesive layer', 'adhesive member', 'attachment layer', and / or 'attachment member'.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be received or disposed in at least the recess portion (3314). For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in at least the first recess portion (3314a) and at least the second recess portion (3314b). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be seated in the recess portion (3314). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be inserted into the recess portion (3314). By doing so, the thickness from the support member (331) to the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) may be reduced, thereby reducing the thickness of the flexible display (330) and improving the space efficiency of the foldable housing (310).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may have lower rigidity than the first plate portion (3311) and the second plate portion (3312). For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may include a material having a modulus value smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion (3311) and / or the second plate portion (3312). For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The second adhesive layer (AM2) can improve the appearance quality of the flexible display (330) by preventing or mitigating the formation of a folded portion on the exterior of the flexible display (330) as the support member (331) bends sharply in the reverse bending region (CB). Additionally, the second adhesive layer (AM2) can reinforce the rigidity of the support member (331) (e.g., the first plate portion (3311) and / or the second plate portion (3312)) whose thickness is reduced by the recess portion (3314), thereby preventing or mitigating damage to the flexible display (330) caused by an external impact applied to the portion of the flexible display (330) where the recess portion (3314) is formed. The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be referred to as a 'bumper member'.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the length (d1) of the second adhesive layer (AM2) in the thickness direction of the foldable housing (310) (e.g., the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction)) may be greater than the depth (d2) of the recess portion (3314). For example, a portion of the second adhesive layer (AM2) may protrude from the recess portion (3314). For example. The lower surface of the second adhesive layer (AM2) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second adhesive layer (AM2)) can be positioned below (e.g., on the second thickness direction (-Z direction) side) with respect to the lower surface of the first plate portion (3311) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the first plate portion (3311)) and the lower surface of the second plate portion (3312) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second plate portion (3312). By doing so, at least when the foldable electronic device (300) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) can be spaced apart from the support member (331).

[0140] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) may be separated from the bending structure (3313). For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) and the bending structure (3313) may be separated from each other in a first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or a second thickness direction (-Z direction). By doing so, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) may be configured not to seal a plurality of openings (H) of the bending structure (3313), thereby preventing air from being filled into the plurality of openings (H) and thus preventing the quality of the flexible display (330) from deteriorating. Additionally, since the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) is separated from the support member (331), a margin area can be secured in which the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) located at the outer edge of the flexible display (330) can bend in terms of the radius of curvature during the bending process of the positive bending area (NB) of the flexible display (330), so that the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332) can be stretched and damaged, which can be prevented or mitigated.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include an air passage (AP). The air passage (AP) may be formed between a support member (331) (e.g., a bending structure (3313) and / or a plurality of openings (H)) and a thermoplastic polyurethane member (332). The air passage (AP) may be defined by the support member (331), the thermoplastic polyurethane member (332), and a second adhesive layer (AM2). Through the air passage (AP), the plurality of openings (H) and the outside air may be in communication, thereby preventing or mitigating the deterioration of the quality of the flexible display (330) caused by air filling the plurality of openings (H).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a polarizer film layer (333). The polarizer film layer (333) may be disposed on a first adhesive layer (AM1). The polarizer film layer (333) may be disposed on a surface of the first adhesive layer (AM1) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The polarizer film layer (333) may be attached to a support member (331) by the first adhesive layer (AM1). The polarizer film layer (333) may be configured to allow light to pass only in a specific direction so that the flexible display (330) is less affected by external light and appears clear. The polarizer film layer (333) may be referred to as a 'p-film'.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a display panel (334). The display panel (334) may be disposed on a polarizing film layer (333). The display panel (334) may be disposed on a surface facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction) of the polarizing film layer (333). The display panel (334) may include various layers including a light-emitting layer, a substrate encapsulating the light-emitting layer, an electrode or wiring layer, a film, and / or an adhesive layer attaching adjacent different layers. The display panel (334) may output a screen.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a third adhesive layer (AM3). The third adhesive layer (AM3) may be disposed on a display panel (334). The third adhesive layer (AM3) may be disposed on a surface of the display panel (334) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The third adhesive layer (AM3) may be configured to attach a glass layer (335) to the display panel (334). The third adhesive layer (AM3) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). In one embodiment, the third adhesive layer (AM3) may include an optically clear adhesive. For example, the third adhesive layer (AM3) may include an optically clear resin (OCR). For example, the third adhesive layer (AM3) may be referred to as the 'third adhesive member', 'third attachment layer', 'third attachment member', 'adhesive layer', 'adhesive member', 'attachment layer' and / or 'attachment member'.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a glass layer (335). The glass layer (335) may be disposed on a third adhesive layer (AM3). The glass layer (335) may be disposed on a surface of the third adhesive layer (AM3) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The glass layer (335) may be attached to a display panel (334) by the third adhesive layer (AM3). The glass layer (335) may be configured to cover the display panel (334). The glass layer (335) may protect the display panel (334) from external impact. The glass layer (335) may be referred to as 'foldable thin glass (FTG)' and / or 'ultra thin glass (UTG)', 'thin film plate', 'window' and / or 'window member'.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a fourth adhesive layer (AM4). The fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may be disposed on a glass layer (335). The fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may be disposed on a surface of the glass layer (335) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may be configured to attach a protective layer (336) to the glass layer (335). The fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). In one embodiment, the fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may include an optically clear adhesive. For example, the fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may include an optically clear resin (OCR). For example, the fourth adhesive layer (AM4) may be referred to as the 'fourth adhesive member', 'fourth attachment layer', 'fourth attachment member', 'adhesive layer', 'adhesive member', 'attachment layer' and / or 'attachment member'.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a protective layer (336). The protective layer (336) may be disposed on a fourth adhesive layer (AM4). The protective layer (336) may be disposed on a surface of the fourth adhesive layer (AM4) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The protective layer (336) may be attached to the glass layer (335) by the fourth adhesive layer (AM4). The protective layer (336) may protect the glass layer (335) and / or the display panel (334) from external impact. The protective layer (336) may prevent or mitigate scattering of by-products of the glass layer (335) in the event of breakage of the glass layer (335).

[0148] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] Specifically, FIGS. 7 to 11 each illustrate a flexible display (430) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 2 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) of a foldable electronic device (400), and illustrate various examples of the flexible display (430).

[0150] The detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure not described below may be the same or similar as the detailed configuration of the electronic device (101) described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 4 and / or the detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (300) described in relation to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0151] Hereinafter, the recess section (4314) may include a first recess section (4314a), a second recess section (4314b), a third recess section (4314c), and a fourth recess section (4314d), but some of these may be omitted and implemented, and additional recess section configurations are not excluded.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (4314) may include a first recess portion (4314a). The first recess portion (4314a) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (4311). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned adjacent to the bending structure portion (4313). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned on one side of the bending structure portion (4313) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the bending structure portion (4313). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned on the bending structure portion (4313) side with respect to the third recess portion (4314c). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned between the bending structure portion (4313) and the third recess portion (4314c). The first recess portion (4314a) may be positioned on the other side of the third recess portion (4314c) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction) of the third recess portion (4314c). The first recess portion (4314a) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (4314) may include a second recess portion (4314b). The second recess portion (4314b) may be formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion (4312). The second recess portion (4314b) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The second recess portion (4314b) may be positioned on the other side of the bending structure portion (4313) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction) of the bending structure portion (4313). The second recess portion (4314b) may be positioned on the side of the bending structure portion (4313) with respect to the fourth recess portion (4314d). The second recess portion (4314b) may be positioned between the bending structure portion (4313) and the fourth recess portion (4314d). The second recess (4314b) may be positioned on one side of the fourth recess (4314d) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the fourth recess (4314d). The second recess (4314b) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (4314) may include a third recess portion (4314c). The third recess portion (4314c) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (4311). The third recess portion (4314c) may be formed at a location further from the bending structure portion (4313) than the first recess portion (4314a). The third recess portion (4314c) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The third recess portion (4314c) may be positioned on one side of the first recess portion (4314a) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the first recess portion (4314a)). The third recess portion (4314c) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The third recess portion (4314c) may be configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion (4311). The third recess portion (4314c) may be a component of the support member (431). For example, the support member (431) may include a third recess portion (4314b).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (4314) may include a fourth recess portion (4314d). The fourth recess portion (4314d) may be formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion (4312). The fourth recess portion (4314d) may be formed at a location further from the bending structure portion (4313) than the second recess portion (4314b). The fourth recess portion (4314d) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB). The fourth recess portion (4314d) may be positioned on the other side of the second recess portion (4314b) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction) of the second recess portion (4314b). The fourth recess portion (4314d) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The fourth recess (4314d) may be configured to reduce the stiffness of the corresponding area of ​​the second plate (4312). The fourth recess (4314d) may be a component of the support member (431). For example, the support member (431) may include the fourth recess (4314d).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in at least one of the first recess portion (4314a) or the third recess portion (4314c). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in at least one of the second recess portion (4314b) or the fourth recess portion (4314d).

[0157] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 7, a second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in a first recess (4314a), a second recess (4314b), a third recess (4314c), and a fourth recess (4314d). A thermoplastic polyurethane member (432) may extend from the third recess (4314c) to the fourth recess (4314d). In one embodiment, some of the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess (4314a) and the second recess (4314b) may have adhesive performance, while others may not have adhesive performance. For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) that does not have adhesive performance may only serve as a bumper member, and the second adhesive layer (AM2) that has adhesive performance may serve as both a bumper member and an adhesive member. For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the third recess (4314c) and the fourth recess (4314d) may have adhesive performance, while the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess (4314a) and the second recess (4314b) may not have adhesive performance. In one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess (4314a), the second recess (4314b), the third recess (4314c), and the fourth recess (4314d) may all have adhesive performance.

[0158] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 8, a second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in a first recess (4314a) and a second recess (4314b). A thermoplastic polyurethane member (432) may extend from the first recess (4314a) to the second recess (4314b).

[0159] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 9, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in the third recess (4314c) and the fourth recess (4314d). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (432) may extend from the third recess (4314c) to the fourth recess (4314d).

[0160] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 10, a second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in a first recess (4314a) and a fourth recess (4314d). A thermoplastic polyurethane member (432) may extend from the first recess (4314a) to the fourth recess (4314d). In one embodiment, a second adhesive layer (AM2) (e.g., a bumper member) that does not have adhesive performance may be additionally disposed in a third recess (4314c) and a second recess (4314b).

[0161] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 11, a second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in a second recess (4314b) and a third recess (4314c). A thermoplastic polyurethane member (432) may extend from the second recess (4314b) to the third recess (4314c). In one embodiment, a second adhesive layer (AM2) (e.g., a bumper member) that does not have adhesive performance may be additionally disposed in the first recess (4314a) and the fourth recess (6314).

[0162] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] Specifically, FIG. 12 illustrates a flexible display (530) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 2 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) of a foldable electronic device (500), showing an example of a flexible display (530).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (530) may include a bumper member (537). The bumper member (537) may be disposed in a recess (5314). For example, the bumper member (537) may be disposed in a first recess (5314a) and / or a second recess (5314b). The bumper member (537) may be disposed between the upper surface of the recess (5314) and the second adhesive layer (AM2). The bumper member (537) may be disposed on the second adhesive layer (AM2). The bumper member (537) may be disposed on the first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the second adhesive layer (AM2).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the bumper member (537) may have lower rigidity than the first plate portion (5311) and the second plate portion (5312). For example, the bumper member (537) may include a material having a modulus value smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion (5311) and the second plate portion (5312). For example, the bumper member (537) may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The bumper member (537) can improve the appearance quality of the flexible display (530) by preventing or mitigating the formation of a folded portion on the exterior of the flexible display (530) as the support member (531) bends sharply in the reverse bending region (CB). Additionally, the bumper member (537) can reinforce the rigidity of the support member (531) (e.g., the first plate part (5311) and / or the second plate part (5312)) whose thickness is reduced by the recess part (5314), thereby preventing or mitigating damage to the flexible display (530) caused by an external impact applied to the part of the flexible display (530) where the recess part (5314) is formed.

[0166] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0167] Specifically, FIG. 13 illustrates a flexible display (630) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 2 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) of a foldable electronic device (600), showing an example of a flexible display (630).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (630) may include a coating layer (638). The coating layer (638) may be disposed in a recess (6314). For example, the coating layer (638) may be disposed in a first recess (6314a) and / or a second recess (6314b). The coating layer (638) may be disposed along at least a portion of the inner surface of the recess (6314). For example, the coating layer (638) may coat the inner surface of the recess (6314).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the coating layer (638) may have lower rigidity than the first plate portion (6311) and the second plate portion (6312). For example, the coating layer (638) may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The coating layer (638) can improve the appearance quality of the flexible display (630) by preventing or mitigating the formation of a folded portion on the appearance of the flexible display (630) as the support member (631) is bent sharply in the reverse bending region (CB). Additionally, the coating layer (638) can reinforce the rigidity of the support member (631) (e.g., the first plate portion (6311) and / or the second plate portion (6312)) whose thickness is reduced by the recess portion (6314), thereby preventing or mitigating damage to the flexible display (630) caused by an external impact applied to the portion of the flexible display (630) where the recess portion (6314) is formed.

[0170] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a side view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] Hereinafter, 'first direction' may mean a +X direction that is parallel to the first folding axis (F1) and / or the second folding axis (F2) and is directed toward the upper left with respect to FIG. 14. 'Second direction' may mean a -X direction that is opposite to the first direction (+X direction) and is directed toward the lower right with respect to FIG. 14. 'Third direction' may mean a +Y direction that is a direction intersecting the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction), a direction from the first folding axis (F1) toward the second housing part (712) and / or a direction from the first housing part (711) toward the second housing part (712), and a direction from the first housing part (711) toward the second housing part (712) with respect to FIG. 14. 'Fourth direction' may mean a direction intersecting the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction), a direction opposite to the third direction (+Y direction), a direction toward the third housing part (713) from the second folding axis (F2), and / or a direction toward the third housing part (713) relative to the first housing part (711), and a -Y direction which is a direction toward the third housing part (713) from the first housing part (711) relative to FIG. 14.

[0172] Hereinafter, the ‘first thickness direction’ refers to a thickness direction of the foldable housing (710) and / or flexible display (740), and may mean the +Z direction, which is the upward direction with respect to FIG. 14. The ‘second thickness direction’ refers to a direction opposite to the first thickness direction (+Z direction), and may mean the -Z direction, which is the downward direction with respect to FIG. 14. The ‘thickness direction’ may refer to the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction).

[0173] The detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which is not described below, may be identical to the detailed configuration of an electronic device (101) described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 4, the detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (300) described in relation to FIGS. 5 and 6, the detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (400) described in relation to FIGS. 7 to 11, the detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (500) described in relation to FIG. 12, and / or the detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (600) described in relation to FIG. 13.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a foldable housing (710). The foldable housing (710) may form a space in which a flexible display (740) is placed. The foldable electronic device (700) may be referred to as a 'multi-foldable electronic device'.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (710) may include a first housing portion (711), a second housing portion (712), and a third housing portion (713). The first housing portion (711) may be positioned between the second housing portion (712) and the third housing portion (713). The second housing portion (712) may be rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing portion (711). For example, the second housing portion (712) may be positioned on the first direction (+X direction) side of the first housing portion (711). The second housing portion (712) may be connected to the edge facing the first direction (+X direction) of the first housing portion (711). The third housing portion (713) may be rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing portion (711). For example, the third housing portion (713) may be positioned on the second direction (-X direction) side of the first housing portion (711). For example, the third housing portion (713) may be connected to the edge facing the second direction (-X direction) of the first housing portion (711).

[0176] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a first hinge assembly (721). The first hinge assembly (721) may be positioned between a first housing portion (711) and a second housing portion (712). The first hinge assembly (721) may be configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion (711) and the second housing portion (712) around a first folding axis (F1). The first folding axis (F1) may be located between the first housing portion (711) and the second housing portion (712).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a second hinge assembly (722). The second hinge assembly (722) may be positioned between the first housing portion (711) and the third housing portion (713). The second hinge assembly (722) may be configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion (711) and the third housing portion (713) around a second folding axis (F2). The second folding axis (F2) may be located between the first housing portion (711) and the third housing portion (713).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a flexible display (740). The flexible display (740) may be disposed in a first housing portion (711), a second housing portion (712), and a third housing portion (713). For example, the flexible display (730) may be disposed on the first housing portion (711), the second housing portion (712), and the third housing portion (713).

[0179] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] Specifically, FIG. 16 illustrates a flexible display (730) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 14 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14) of a multi-foldable electronic device (700), illustrating an example of the flexible display (730).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (730) may include a support member (731). The support member (731) may serve as a structure of the flexible display (730). The support member (731) may include a metal material. For example, the support member (731) may include titanium.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a first plate portion (7311). The first plate portion (7311) may be disposed in the first housing portion (711). The first plate portion (7311) may be disposed between the first bending structure portion (7314) and the second bending structure portion (7315). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the first plate portion (7311) may be disposed on the other side of the first bending structure portion (7314) (e.g., the fourth direction (-Y direction) side). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the first plate portion (7311) may be disposed on one side of the second bending structure portion (7315) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a second plate portion (7312). The second plate portion (7312) may be disposed in the second housing portion (712). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the second plate portion (7312) may be disposed on one side of the first bending structure portion (7314) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side).

[0184] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a third plate portion (7313). The third plate portion (7313) may be disposed in the third housing portion (713). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the third plate portion (7313) may be disposed on the other side (e.g., the fourth direction (-Y direction) side) of the second bending structure portion (7315).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a first bending structure (7314). The first bending structure (7314) may be positioned between the first plate portion (7311) and the second plate portion (7312). The first bending structure (7314) may be positioned in a positive bending area (NB) formed between the first housing portion (711) and the second housing portion (712). The first bending structure (7314) may be positioned in an area overlapping with the first folding axis (F1). The first bending structure (7314) may be referred to as a 'bending structure'. The first bending structure (7314) may be understood to have the same or similar structure as the bending structure (3313) described in relation to FIGS. 5 to 13.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a second bending structure (7315). The second bending structure (7315) may be positioned between the first plate portion (7311) and the third plate portion (7313). The second bending structure (7315) may be positioned in a positive bending area (NB) formed between the first housing portion (711) and the third housing portion (713). The second bending structure (7315) may be positioned in an area overlapping with the second folding axis (F2). The second bending structure (7315) may be referred to as a 'bending structure'. The second bending structure (7315) may be understood to have the same or similar structure as the bending structure (3313) described in relation to FIGS. 5 to 13.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the first bending structure (7314) and / or the second bending structure (7315) may include a pattern structure. The pattern structure may be provided in various shapes. For example, the first bending structure (7314) and / or the second bending structure (7315) may include a plurality of openings (H). The plurality of openings (H) may be regularly arranged.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the support member (731) may include a recess portion (7316). The recess portion (7316) may be formed by being recessed from the lower surface of the first plate portion (7311) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the first plate portion (7311)), the lower surface of the second plate portion (7312) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second plate portion (7312)), and the lower surface of the third plate portion (7313) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the third plate portion (7313). For example, the recess portion (7316) may be formed as an intaglio on the lower surface of the first plate portion (7311), the lower surface of the second plate portion (7312), and the lower surface of the third plate portion (7313). The recess (7316) can be formed in the reverse bending region (CB).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (7316) may include a first recess portion (7316a). The first recess portion (7316a) may be formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion (7312). The first recess portion (7316a) may be positioned in a reverse bending area (CB) formed in the second housing portion (712). The first recess portion (7136a) may be positioned adjacent to the first bending structure portion (7314). The first recess portion (7316a) may be positioned on one side of the first bending structure portion (7314) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the first bending structure portion (7314)). The first recess portion (7316a) may extend in a direction parallel to the first folding axis (F1) (e.g., a first direction (+X direction) and / or a second direction (-X direction)). The first recess portion (7316a) may be configured to reduce the stiffness of the corresponding area of ​​the second plate portion (7312). The first recess portion (7136a) may be a component of the support member (731). For example, the support member (731) may include the first recess portion (7316a).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (7316) may include a second recess portion (7316b). The second recess portion (7316b) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (7311). The second recess portion (7316b) may be positioned in a reverse bending area (CB) adjacent to the first folding axis (F1) of the first housing portion (711). The second recess portion (7316b) may be positioned adjacent to the first bending structure portion (7314). The second recess portion (7316b) may be positioned on the other side of the first bending structure portion (7314) (e.g., the fourth direction (-Y direction) side of the first bending structure portion (7314)). The second recess portion (7316b) may extend in a direction parallel to the first folding axis (F1) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The second recess portion (7316b) may be configured to reduce the stiffness of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion (7311). The second recess portion (7316b) may be a component of the support member (731). For example, the support member (731) may include the second recess portion (7316b).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (7316) may include a third recess portion (7316c). The third recess portion (7316c) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (7311). The third recess portion (7316c) may be positioned in a reverse bending area (CB) adjacent to the second folding axis (F2) of the first housing portion (711). The third recess portion (7316c) may be positioned adjacent to the second bending structure portion (7315). The third recess portion (7316c) may be formed on one side of the second bending structure portion (7315) (e.g., the side of the third direction (+Y direction) of the second bending structure portion (7315). The third recess (7316c) may extend in a direction parallel to the second folding axis (F2) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The third recess (7316c) may be configured to reduce the stiffness of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion (7311). The third recess (7316c) may be a component of the support member (731). For example, the support member (731) may include the third recess (7316c).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (7316) may include a fourth recess portion (7316d). The fourth recess portion (7316d) may be formed on the lower surface of the third plate portion (7313). The fourth recess portion (7316d) may be positioned in the reverse bending area (CB) formed in the third housing portion (713). The fourth recess portion (7316d) may be positioned adjacent to the second bending structure portion (7315). The fourth recess portion (7316d) may be positioned on the other side of the second bending structure portion (7315) (e.g., the fourth direction (-Y direction) side of the second bending structure portion (7315). The fourth recess (7316d) may extend in a direction parallel to the second folding axis (F2) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)). The fourth recess (7316d) may be configured to reduce the stiffness of the corresponding area of ​​the third plate portion (7313). The fourth recess (7316d) may be a component of the support member (731). For example, the support member (731) may include the fourth recess (7316d).

[0193] In one embodiment, the recess section (7316) is described as including a first recess section (7316a), a second recess section (7316b), a third recess section (7316c), and a fourth recess section (7316d), but some of these may be omitted and implemented, and additional recess sections are not excluded.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (730) may include a first adhesive layer (AM1). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on a support member (731). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on the first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the support member (731). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be configured to attach a layer (e.g., a polarizing film layer (333) and / or a display panel (334) of FIG. 6) placed on the first adhesive layer (AM1) to the support member (731).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may overlap the first bending structure portion (7314) and the second bending structure portion (7315). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may be configured to cover the first bending structure portion (7314) and the second bending structure portion (7315). For example, the first adhesive layer (AM1) may be placed on the first plate portion (7311), the second plate portion (7312), the third plate portion (7313), the first bending structure portion (7314), and the second bending structure portion (7315). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may extend integrally across the second housing portion (712), the first housing portion (711), and the third housing portion (713). The first adhesive layer (AM1) may extend integrally from the second housing portion (712) to the third housing portion (713). For example, it can be understood that the disconnected portion of the first adhesive layer (AM1) in the flexible display (730) is not formed.

[0196] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (730) may include a thermoplastic polyurethane member (732). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) may be placed below the support member (731). For example, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) may be placed on the second thickness direction (-Z direction) side of the support member (731). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) may overlap the first bending structure (7314) and the second bending structure (7315).

[0197] According to one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) may include a first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may overlap the first bending structure portion (7314). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be positioned between the first housing portion (711) and the second housing portion (712). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may overlap at least partially with the first plate portion (7311). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may overlap at least partially with the second plate portion (7312). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may prevent foreign substances from penetrating into the first bending structure portion (7314). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be referred to as a ‘thermoplastic polyurethane member’.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be attached to the first plate portion (7311) and the second plate portion (7312) by a second adhesive layer (AM2). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be attached to the second plate portion (7312) by a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess portion (7316a), and may be attached to the first plate portion (7311) by a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the second recess portion (7316b). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may extend from the first recess portion (7316a) to the second recess portion (7316b). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may not be attached to the first bending structure (7314).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) may include a second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may overlap the second bending structure portion (7315). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may be positioned between the first housing portion (711) and the third housing portion (713). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may overlap at least partially with the first plate portion (7311). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may overlap at least partially with the third plate portion (7313). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may prevent foreign substances from penetrating into the second bending structure portion (7315). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may be referred to as a ‘thermoplastic polyurethane member’.

[0200] According to one embodiment, the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may be attached to the first plate portion (7311) and the third plate portion (7313) by a second adhesive layer (AM2). The first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be attached to the first plate portion (7311) by a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the third recess portion (7316c), and may be attached to the third plate portion (7313) by a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the fourth recess portion (7316d). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may extend from the third recess portion (7316c) to the fourth recess portion (7316d). The second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may not be attached to the second bending structure (7315).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (730) may include a second adhesive layer (AM2). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed between the first plate portion (7311) and the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be configured to attach the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) to the support member (731). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed between the second plate portion (7312) and the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed between the third plate portion (7313) and the thermoplastic polyurethane member (732). For example, it may be understood that the second adhesive layer (AM2) is not attached to the first bending structure portion (7314) and the second bending structure portion (7315). Through this, the second adhesive layer (AM2) can be attached to the support member (731) so as not to seal the first bending structure (7314) and the second bending structure (7315).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in the recess portion (7316). For example, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in each of the first recess portion (7316a), the second recess portion (7316b), the third recess portion (7316c), and the fourth recess portion (7316d). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be seated in the recess portion (7316). The second adhesive layer (AM2) may be inserted into the recess portion (7316).

[0203] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (700) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be spaced apart from the first bending structure (7314). For example, when the foldable electronic device (700) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) and the first bending structure (7314) may be spaced apart from each other in a first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or a second thickness direction (-Z direction).

[0204] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (700) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may be spaced apart from the second bending structure (7315). For example, when the foldable electronic device (700) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14), the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) and the second bending structure (7315) may be spaced apart from each other in a first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or a second thickness direction (-Z direction).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (730) may include an air passage (AP). The air passage (AP) may be formed between the support member (731) and the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) and between the support member (731) and the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322). The air passage (AP) formed on the side of the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) may be defined by the support member (731), the first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321), and the second adhesive layer (AM2). The air passage (AP) formed on the side of the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) may be defined by the support member (731), the second thermoplastic polyurethane member (732), and the second adhesive layer (AM2).

[0206] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0207] Specifically, FIG. 17 illustrates a flexible display (830) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 14 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14) of a multi-foldable electronic device (800), illustrating an example of a flexible display (830).

[0208] According to one embodiment, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may be formed integrally. The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may be disposed in at least a portion of the reverse bending region (CB) formed in the second housing portion (812), a forward bending region (NB) formed between the first housing portion (811) and the second housing portion (812), a reverse bending region (CB) formed adjacent to the first folding axis (F1) of the first housing portion (811), a reverse bending region (CB) formed adjacent to the second folding axis (F2) of the first housing portion (811), a region between the two reverse bending regions (CB) of the first housing portion (811), a forward bending region (NB) formed between the first housing portion (811) and the third housing portion (813), and at least a portion of the reverse bending region (CB) formed in the third housing portion (813). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may overlap the first bending structure (8314) and the second bending structure (8315). For example, the thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the first bending structure (8314) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the first bending structure (8314)) and the lower surface of the second bending structure (8315) (e.g., the surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction) of the second bending structure (8315). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may overlap the first plate portion (8311). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may overlap at least partially the second plate portion (8312). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may overlap at least partially with the third plate portion (8313). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may be attached to a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess portion (8316a), the second recess portion (8316b), the third recess portion (8316c), and the fourth recess portion (8316d). The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832) may extend from the first recess portion (8316a) to the fourth recess portion (8316d).

[0209] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] Specifically, FIG. 18 illustrates a flexible display (930) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 14 in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 14) of a multi-foldable electronic device (900), illustrating an example of the flexible display (930).

[0211] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (9316) may include a first recess portion (9316a). The first recess portion (9316a) may be formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion (9312). The first recess portion (9316a) may be positioned in a reverse bending area (CB) formed in the second plate portion (9312). The first recess portion (9316a) may be positioned adjacent to the first bending structure portion (9314). The first recess portion (9316a) may be positioned on one side of the first bending structure portion (9314) (e.g., the third direction (+Y direction) side of the first bending structure portion (9314)). The first recess (9316a) may be extended in a direction parallel to the first folding axis (F1) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (9316) may include a second recess portion (9316b). The second recess portion (9316b) may be formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion (9311). The second recess portion (9316b) may be formed between the first bending structure portion (9314) and the second bending structure portion (9315). The second recess portion (9316b) may be positioned adjacent to the first bending structure portion (9314) and the second bending structure portion (9315). The second recess portion (9316b) may be formed in the area between the two reverse bending regions (CB) formed in the first plate portion (9311) and the two reverse bending regions (CB). The second recess portion (9316b) may extend from at least a portion of the reverse bending area (CB) adjacent to the first folding axis (F1) of the first plate portion (9311) to at least a portion of the reverse bending area (CB) adjacent to the second folding axis (F2) of the first plate portion (9311). The second recess portion (9316b) may extend in a direction parallel to the first folding axis (F1) and / or the second folding axis (F2) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the recess portion (9316) may include a third recess portion (9316c). The third recess portion (9316c) may be formed in the third plate portion (9313). The third recess portion (9316c) may be positioned on the other side of the second bending structure portion (9315) (e.g., the side of the fourth direction (-Y direction) of the second bending structure portion (9315). The third recess portion (9316c) may extend in a direction parallel to the second folding axis (F2) (e.g., the first direction (+X direction) and / or the second direction (-X direction)).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the second adhesive layer (AM2) may be disposed in the first recess portion (9316a), the second recess portion (9316b), and the third recess portion (9316c). The length of the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the second recess portion (9316b) in the third direction (+Y direction) and / or the fourth direction (-Y direction) may be greater than the length of the second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in the first recess portion (9316a) and / or the third recess portion (9316c) in the third direction (+Y direction) and / or the fourth direction (-Y direction).

[0215] A foldable electronic device includes a support member that supports a flexible display. The support member includes a plate portion that supports the flexible display in a non-folding region and a bending structure portion that supports the flexible display in a folding region. The bending structure portion is configured to bend in response to the folding operation of the foldable electronic device. For example, the bending structure portion includes a pattern structure having a plurality of openings formed therein, and such a pattern structure can be formed in various ways. An adhesive layer may be disposed on top of the pattern structure to attach a layer (e.g., a polarizing film layer or a display panel) placed on top of the support member to the support member, and an attachment member may be disposed on bottom of the pattern structure to attach a thermoplastic polyurethane member to the support member to prevent foreign substances from entering into the pattern structure.

[0216] When the adhesive layer and attachment member placed on both sides of the pattern structure cover both the top and bottom of the pattern structure, air cannot escape through the multiple openings constituting the pattern structure, causing a problem in which the surface quality of the flexible display deteriorates. Therefore, in order to improve the surface quality of the flexible display, an air passage structure is required that allows the multiple openings to communicate with the outside air.

[0217] Conventional flexible displays, in order to implement the air passage, had a structure in which an adhesive layer attached to a support member did not cover the entire upper surface of the support member, but rather had a structure that was broken in the area where the pattern structure was formed, thereby forming an air passage on the upper surface of the pattern structure.

[0218] However, in conventional flexible displays, in the area where the pattern structure is formed, an empty space is formed where the adhesive layer is not provided on the pattern structure, so layers (e.g., a polarizing film layer or a display panel) placed on the support member in that area are not fully supported, which has a problem of reduced durability and quality of the flexible display.

[0219] In addition, conventional flexible displays have a structure in which an adhesive member and a thermoplastic polyurethane member placed below a pattern structure are simply laminated, which limits the reduction of the thickness of the flexible display.

[0220] In addition, conventional flexible displays had a problem in which a folded portion was formed on the exterior of the flexible display due to the abrupt bending of the support member in the recess portion formed in the support member so that a teardrop shape could be realized in the folded state of the foldable electronic device, and as a result, the exterior quality of the flexible display was degraded.

[0221] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure is to improve the durability and appearance quality of a flexible display while securing an air passage that communicates the outside air with a plurality of openings constituting a pattern structure.

[0222] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure is to improve space efficiency by reducing the thickness of the flexible display.

[0223] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure is to improve the appearance quality of a flexible display by ensuring that a folded portion is not formed on the exterior of the flexible display.

[0224] The problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0225] A foldable electronic device and a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can improve the durability and quality of the flexible display while securing an air passage that communicates the outside air with a plurality of openings constituting a pattern structure.

[0226] A foldable electronic device and a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can improve space efficiency by reducing the thickness of the flexible display.

[0227] A foldable electronic device and a flexible display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can improve the appearance quality of the flexible display by ensuring that a folded portion is not formed on the exterior of the flexible display.

[0228] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0229] A foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310) comprising a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312).

[0230] A foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge assembly (320) disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0231] A foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (330; 430; 530; 630) disposed in the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0232] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a first plate portion (3311; 4311; 5311; 6311) disposed in the first housing portion, a second plate portion (3312; 4312; 5312; 6312) disposed in the second housing portion, and a bending structure portion (3313; 4313) disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings (H); a first recess portion (3314a; 4314a; 5314a; 6314a) formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion, and a first recess portion (3314a; 4314a; 5314a; 6314a) formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and the corresponding area of ​​the second plate portion It may include a support member (331; 431; 531; 631) including a recess (3341, 4314, 5314, 6314) including a second recess (3314b, 4314b, 5314b, 6314b) configured to reduce rigidity.

[0233] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first adhesive layer (AM1) which is disposed on top of the support member, at least one portion of which overlaps with the bending structure portion of the support member, and which is configured to attach a layer disposed on top to the support member.

[0234] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member (332; 432) that is attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in at least the first recess portion and at least the second recess portion, and has a portion that is not adhesively attached to the bending structure portion and overlaps with the plurality of openings of the support member.

[0235] The second adhesive layer of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a material having a modulus value smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

[0236] The first adhesive layer of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be integrally extended from the first plate portion to the second plate portion.

[0237] The thermoplastic polyurethane member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be spaced apart from the bending structure.

[0238] An air passage (AP) may be formed between the thermoplastic polyurethane member and the support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0239] The recess portion (4314) of the foldable electronic device (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a third recess portion (4314c) formed on the first plate portion (4311) and formed at a position further from the bending structure portion (4313) than the first recess portion (4314a), and a fourth recess portion (4314d) formed on the second plate portion (4312) and formed at a position further from the bending structure portion than the second recess portion (4314b).

[0240] The second adhesive layer of a foldable electronic device (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed in at least one of the first recess portion or the third recess portion and at least one of the second recess portion or the fourth recess portion.

[0241] The length (d1) of the second adhesive layer of the foldable housing in the thickness direction of the foldable housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be greater than the depth (d2) of the recess portion.

[0242] The flexible display (530) of the foldable electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a bumper member (537) disposed in the recess (5314).

[0243] The modulus value of the bumper member of the foldable electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

[0244] The buffer member of the foldable electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed between the upper surface of the recess and the second adhesive layer.

[0245] The flexible display (630) of the foldable electronic device (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a coating layer (638) disposed along at least a portion of the inner surface of the first recess portion (6314a) and at least a portion of the inner surface of the second recess portion (6314b).

[0246] The coating layer of the foldable electronic device (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have lower rigidity than the first plate portion (6311) and the second plate portion (6312).

[0247] A foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (710; 810) comprising a first housing portion (711; 811), a second housing portion (712; 812) rotatably connected to one side of the first housing portion, and a third housing portion (713; 813) rotatably connected to the other side of the first housing portion.

[0248] A foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first hinge assembly (721) disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion around a first folding axis (F1).

[0249] A foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second hinge assembly (722) disposed between the first housing portion and the third housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the third housing portion around a second folding axis (F2).

[0250] A foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (730; 830; 930) disposed in the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the third housing portion.

[0251] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first plate portion (7311; 8311; 9311) disposed in the first housing portion; a second plate portion (7312; 8312; 9312) disposed in the second housing portion; a third plate portion (7313; 8313; 9313) disposed in the third housing portion; a first bending structure portion (7314; 8314; 9314) disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings (H); a second bending structure portion (7315; 8315; 9315) disposed between the first plate portion and the third plate portion and including a plurality of openings; and a lower surface of the first plate portion, a lower surface of the second plate portion, and a lower surface of the third plate portion. It may include a support member (731; 831; 931) including a recess (7316; 8316; 9316).

[0252] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first adhesive layer (AM1) which is disposed on top of the support member, and at least one portion of which overlaps the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion of the support member, and which is configured to attach a layer disposed on top to the support member.

[0253] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member (732; 832; 932) which is attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed at least in the first recess portion and at least in the second recess portion, and which has a portion that is not adhesively attached to the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion and overlaps with the plurality of openings of the support member.

[0254] The thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) of the foldable electronic device (700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) that overlaps the first bending structure and a second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) that overlaps the second bending structure.

[0255] The recess portion (7316; 8316) of a foldable electronic device (700; 800) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first recess portion (7316a; 8316b) formed on one side of the first bending structure portion (7314; 8314), a second recess portion (7316b; 8316b) formed on the other side of the first bending structure portion, a third recess portion (7316c; 8316c) formed on one side of the second bending structure portion (7315; 8315), and a fourth recess portion (7316d; 8316d) formed on the other side of the second bending structure portion.

[0256] The thermoplastic polyurethane member (832; 932) of a foldable electronic device (800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed integrally.

[0257] The recess portion (9316) of a foldable electronic device (900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first recess portion (9316a) formed on one side of the first bending structure portion (9314), a second recess portion (9316b) formed between the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion (9315), and a third recess portion (9316c) formed on the other side of the second bending structure portion.

[0258] A foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310) comprising a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312).

[0259] A foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge assembly (320) disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0260] A foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (330; 430) disposed in the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0261] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a support member (331; 431) configured to perform the role of a structure of the flexible display.

[0262] The support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first plate portion (3311; 4311) disposed in the first housing portion.

[0263] The support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second plate portion (3312; 4312) disposed in the second housing portion.

[0264] The support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a bending structure (3313; 4313) disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and configured to be bent by including a plurality of openings (H).

[0265] The support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a recess portion (3314; 4314) that is recessed into the lower surface of the first plate portion and the second plate portion, is disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion, and is configured to reduce the thickness of the first plate portion and the second plate portion to reduce the rigidity of the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

[0266] The flexible display of the foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a bumper member (AM2) disposed in the recess portion and comprising a material having a lower modulus value than that of the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

[0267] The flexible display of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a first adhesive layer (AM1) which is disposed on the support member, at least one portion of which overlaps the bending structure, and configured to attach the layer disposed on top to the support member.

[0268] The flexible display of the foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a thermoplastic polyurethane member (332; 432) disposed below the support member and having at least one portion overlap the bending structure.

[0269] The bumper member of the foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be a second adhesive layer (AM2).

[0270] The thermoplastic polyurethane member of the foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be attached to the first plate portion and the second plate portion by the bumper member.

[0271] The first adhesive layer of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be integrally extended from the first plate portion to the second plate portion.

[0272] The thermoplastic polyurethane member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be spaced apart from the bending structure.

[0273] An air passage (AP) may be formed between the thermoplastic polyurethane member and the support member of a foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0274] The length (d1) of the second adhesive layer in the thickness direction of the foldable housing of the foldable electronic device (300; 400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be greater than the depth (d2) of the recess portion.

[0275] Although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0276] Although the present disclosure has been described by way of example with respect to one embodiment, it should be understood that the embodiment is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detailed configuration may be made without departing from the whole context of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

In a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600), A foldable housing (310) comprising a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312); A hinge assembly (320) disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and It includes a flexible display (330; 430; 530; 630) disposed in the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and The above flexible display is, It comprises a first plate portion (3311; 4311; 5311; 6311) disposed in the first housing portion, a second plate portion (3312; 4312; 5312; 6312) disposed in the second housing portion, and a bending structure portion (3313; 4313) disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings (H); a first recess portion (3314a; 4314a; 5314a; 6314a) formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the first plate portion, and a second recess portion (3314b, 4314b, 5314b) formed on the lower surface of the second plate portion and disposed adjacent to the bending structure portion and configured to reduce the rigidity of the corresponding area of ​​the second plate portion. A support member (331; 431; 531; 631) including a recess portion (3341, 4314, 5314, 6314) including 6314b; A first adhesive layer (AM1) disposed on the support member, with at least one portion overlapping the bending structure portion of the support member, and configured to attach the layer disposed on top to the support member; and A foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member (332; 432) which is attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed in at least the first recess portion and at least the second recess portion, and which has a portion that is not adhesively attached to the bending structure portion and overlaps with the plurality of openings of the support member. In paragraph 1, The second adhesive layer comprises a material having a modulus value smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion and the second plate portion, in a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600). In paragraph 1 or 2, The first adhesive layer is a foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) that extends integrally from the first plate portion to the second plate portion. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The thermoplastic polyurethane member is spaced apart from the bending structure, and A foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600) having an air passage (AP) formed between the thermoplastic polyurethane member and the support member. In paragraph 1, The above recess portion (4314) further comprises a third recess portion (4314c) formed in the first plate portion (4311) and formed at a position further from the bending structure portion (4313) than the first recess portion (4314a), and a fourth recess portion (4314d) formed in the second plate portion (4312) and formed at a position further from the bending structure portion than the second recess portion (4314b), in a foldable electronic device (400). In paragraph 5, The second adhesive layer is a foldable electronic device (400) disposed on at least one of the first recess portion or the third recess portion and at least one of the second recess portion or the fourth recess portion. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, The length (d1) of the second adhesive layer in the thickness direction of the foldable housing is greater than the depth (d2) of the recess portion of the foldable electronic device (300; 400; 500; 600). In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, The flexible display (530) further includes a bumper member (537) disposed in the recess (5314), and A foldable electronic device (500) in which the modulus value of the bumper member is smaller than the modulus value of each of the first plate portion and the second plate portion. In paragraph 8, The above buffer member is a foldable electronic device (500) disposed between the upper surface of the recess and the second adhesive layer. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, The flexible display (630) further comprises a coating layer (638) disposed along at least a portion of the inner surface of the first recess portion (6314a) and at least a portion of the inner surface of the second recess portion (6314b), and The above coating layer is a foldable electronic device (600) having lower rigidity than the first plate portion (6311) and the second plate portion (6312). In a foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900), A foldable housing (710; 810) comprising a first housing portion (711; 811), a second housing portion (712; 812) rotatably connected to one side of the first housing portion, and a third housing portion (713; 813) rotatably connected to the other side of the first housing portion; A first hinge assembly (721) disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion around a first folding axis (F1); A second hinge assembly (722) disposed between the first housing portion and the third housing portion and configured to rotatably connect the first housing portion and the third housing portion around a second folding axis (F2); and It includes a flexible display (730; 830; 930) disposed in the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the third housing portion, and The above flexible display is, A support member (731; 831) comprising: a first plate portion (7311; 8311; 9311) disposed in the first housing portion; a second plate portion (7312; 8312; 9312) disposed in the second housing portion; a third plate portion (7313; 8313; 9313) disposed in the third housing portion; a first bending structure portion (7314; 8314; 9314) disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and including a plurality of openings (H); a second bending structure portion (7315; 8315; 9315) disposed between the first plate portion and the third plate portion and including a plurality of openings; and a recess portion (7316; 8316; 9316) formed on the lower surface of the first plate portion, the lower surface of the second plate portion, and the lower surface of the third plate portion. 931); A first adhesive layer (AM1) disposed on the support member, wherein at least one portion overlaps the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion of the support member, and configured to attach the layer disposed on top to the support member; and A foldable electronic device (700; 800; 900) comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) member (732; 832; 932) which is attached to the lower surface of the support member through a second adhesive layer (AM2) disposed at least in the first recess portion and at least in the second recess portion, and whose part is not adhesively attached to the first bending structure portion and the second bending structure portion and overlaps with the plurality of openings of the support member. In Paragraph 11, The above thermoplastic polyurethane member (732) comprises a first thermoplastic polyurethane member (7321) that overlaps the first bending structure and a second thermoplastic polyurethane member (7322) that overlaps the second bending structure, forming a foldable electronic device (700). In Article 11 or Article 12, The above recess portion (7316; 8316) comprises a first recess portion (7316a; 8316b) formed on one side of the first bending structure portion (7314; 8314), a second recess portion (7316b; 8316b) formed on the other side of the first bending structure portion, a third recess portion (7316c; 8316c) formed on one side of the second bending structure portion (7315; 8315), and a fourth recess portion (7316d; 8316d) formed on the other side of the second bending structure portion, forming a foldable electronic device (700; 800). In any one of paragraphs 11 through 13, The above thermoplastic polyurethane member (832; 932) is integrally formed with a foldable electronic device (800; 900). In any one of paragraphs 11 through 14, The above recess section (9316) comprises a first recess section (9316a) formed on one side of the first bending structure section (9314), a second recess section (9316b) formed between the first bending structure section and the second bending structure section (9315), and a third recess section (9316c) formed on the other side of the second bending structure section, forming a foldable electronic device (900).

Images